Neighboring World Cup organizing countries support Gianni Infantino

According to News.

Why is this important

Mexican Football Federation's support for Gianni Infantino underscores the importance of unity among World Cup host countries. With increasing pressure from UEFA and Concacaf, this position may influence further negotiations and decisions by FIFA, especially in the context of upcoming tournaments.

Key takeaways

• Neighboring World Cup organizing countries support Gianni Infantino.
• The Mexican Football Federation has supported FIFA President Gianni Infantino amid calls for Concacaf to be held accountable and a threatened boycott by UEFA.
• World Cup co-hosts Mexico back Gianni Infantino despite Concacaf’s calls for ‘reckoning’ - The Athletic.

The Mexican Football Federation (FMF) has expressed its support for Gianni Infantino, despite the fallout from FIFA's failed plan to sell World Cup shares to private investors. Concacaf, the confederation of North, Central America and the Caribbean, called for a "comprehensive account" of Infantino's presidency. The FMF was supported by the Argentine Football Association (AFA) in its support of the FIFA President.

It comes as UEFA once again reiterated its threats to boycott the World Cup, issuing a statement over the weekend saying it had lost confidence in Infantino's leadership. However, World Cup host neighbors Mexico came to the FIFA president's defense. In a statement, the FMF said it "supports President Infantino's call... to continue to develop football together for the benefit of its 211 member associations."

The statement concluded: “FMF supports the leadership of President Infantino in the continued development of football through institutional strengthening.”

FIFA was planning to sell stakes in a new entity, called the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), which it would set up to manage its major tournaments and events. World football's governing body wanted to sell a fifth of FFE to a group of investors led by Thrive Eternal - a US investment fund run by Joshua Kushner, brother of President Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, for $4.2bn (£3.1bn).

The "frustration and anger" that led UEFA to threaten a World Cup boycott was also highlighted. The Confederation of South American Football (Conmebol) acknowledged in a statement on Thursday its "concerns" about the situation due to a lack of consultation, but stressed the importance of "preserving the unity of the football family" ahead of FIFA elections in March. Member association Conmebol AFA acknowledged the "uncertainty" the proposals caused but praised the "deep transformation" Infantino brought to FIFA.

“On behalf of the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and its Executive Committee, we write to you, dear President... to express our support for the management carried out over the last 10 years,” the statement begins, ending by saying that “the best way forward” is to continue under Infantino’s leadership.

Mexico and Argentina joined other associations including Morocco, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates in supporting Infantino. However, several European associations, including England, Wales and Sweden, withdrew their support. Norwegian Football Federation (NFF) president Lise Klavenes, a frequent critic of Infantino, said in an interview with the Guardian that her association would ask the FIFA president to resign.Infantino received "full support" from senior FIFA officials attending an emergency meeting in Morocco on Wednesday. He will stand for re-election at the convention in March. The Confederation of Africa (CAF), which represents African countries, released a statement on Thursday "unanimously reaffirming its support" for Infantino and reiterating its commitment to continue working with global football governing bodies.

What happens next

Given the current situation, FIFA is expected to continue its efforts to strengthen Infantino's position. It is important to monitor the reaction of UEFA and other confederations, as their actions may affect preparations for the World Cup and the general atmosphere in the world of football.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to Gianni Infantino?

The Mexican Football Federation has expressed support for Gianni Infantino, despite criticism from Concacaf and threats of a boycott from UEFA.

Who confirmed support for Infantino?

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) also confirmed its support for Gianni Infantino.

Why is it important to support Infantino now?

Infantino's support is important amid UEFA's threats to boycott the World Cup and Concacaf's calls for an account of his presidency.

What changes did FIFA plan?

FIFA planned to create a new structure, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), and sell a stake in it to a group of investors for $4.2 billion.

What are the consequences of FIFA's failed plan?

The failed plan to sell shares in the World Cup sparked criticism and discontent, leading to threats of a boycott from UEFA.

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